Shell-Stringing

In this display case lie four necklaces made from Maireener shells, a type of sea snail commonly known as the rainbow kelp shell. Two of them were made by Ancestors, while the others were made by Aunty Lola Greeno, a contemporary Aboriginal artist from lutruwita/Tasmania. They were always made by women. These delicate strings of shells represent an unbroken connection to Ancestors since time immemorial, and are a cultural practice that has been passed from generation to generation. The two older necklaces were made with Maireener shells of similar sizes and colours that have been meticulously chosen. By making these necklaces, each maker is connected to her Country and culture. Even though we may not know the names of the Ancestors who made these, their connection to a Community or family is acknowledged. Aunty Lola Greeno was taught how to string shells by her mother, who herself was taught by generations of women before her. Her works represent not only the culture of her people, but also the connection that she and other women in her Community have to their Ancestors and Country. Greeno strings shells in a traditional way but also likes to experiment with this method. For example, she uses larger King Maireener shells as a focal point, instead of just the longer strings of smaller shells used in traditional necklaces. If you look at the shells in her necklaces, you will see their lustre, which Greeno created by treating them through a special process.